H&P Midterm Neuro Flashcards
What does worst HA/thunderclap flag for?
Subarachnoid hemorrhage
What does severe A with nuchal rigidity flag for?
Meningitis
What does dull HA with coughing, sneezing, and sudden movement flag for?
Mass lesion
What can dizziness be?
Lightheaded/palps = arrythymias
Spinning w/ nystagmus & ataxia = vertigo
Tunneling/blacking out = Low BP
Associated ataxia, diplopia, dysarthria = stroke/TIA
What is paresthesia/dysesthesia?
Paresthesia = peculiar sensations WITHOUT an obvious stimulus (tingling, prickling, warm/cold, pressure)
Dysesthesia = Distorted sensations IN RESPONSE to an obvious stimulus (light burning/tingling)
Define syncope.
Sudden but temp LOC and postural tone due to decreased blood flow to brain.
What are the two kinds of strokes?
Ischemic
Hemmorhagic
What are the common risk factors for strokes?
HTN, Smoking, HLD, DM, Obesity, Heavy alcohol use, AFIB, Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Define delirium.
Acutely disturbed state of mind characterized by restlessness, illusions, and incoherence of speech/thought.
Define dementia.
Chronic condition leading to cognitive decline. Characterized by impaired memory and reasoning.
Define depression.
Mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities.
What 3 things do I care most about in a neuro exam?
Mental status intact
Findings being symmetrical
If asymmetrical, is it CNS or PNS?
What are the components of the neuro exam?
Mental status
CN
Motor
Sensory
Reflexes
How do I test CN 5?
Clench teeth (masseter + temporal)
Lateral jaw movement (pterygoids)
Sharp and light touch on forehead, cheek, and jaw.
What is the corneal reflex?
Have pt look up and away, touch lateral side of cornea with a wisp. Should cause blinking.
CN 5 and 7 work together.
